Math Problem Statement

The horsepower​ (hp) that a shaft can safely transmit varies jointly with its speed​ (in revolutions per​ minute, rpm) and the cube of its diameter. If a shaft of a certain material 2 inches in diameter can transmit 36 hp at 75​ rpm, what diameter must the shaft have in order to transmit 38 hp at 80 ​rpm?

Solution

Let's solve the problem using the concept of joint variation.

Given:

  • Horsepower hphp varies jointly with the speed NN and the cube of the diameter dd.
  • Mathematically, this can be expressed as:
    hp=kNd3hp = k \cdot N \cdot d^3 where kk is the constant of proportionality.

Step 1: Find the constant kk.

From the information given:

  • hp=36hp = 36 horsepower
  • N=75N = 75 rpm
  • d=2d = 2 inches

Substitute these values into the equation: 36=k75(2)336 = k \cdot 75 \cdot (2)^3 36=k75836 = k \cdot 75 \cdot 8 36=600k36 = 600k k=36600=0.06k = \frac{36}{600} = 0.06

Step 2: Use kk to find the required diameter dd for the new conditions.

Now, we need to find dd when:

  • hp=38hp = 38 horsepower
  • N=80N = 80 rpm

Substituting these values into the equation with the constant kk already found: 38=0.0680d338 = 0.06 \cdot 80 \cdot d^3 38=4.8d338 = 4.8 \cdot d^3 d3=384.87.917d^3 = \frac{38}{4.8} \approx 7.917 d7.91731.996 inchesd \approx \sqrt[3]{7.917} \approx 1.996 \text{ inches}

Final Answer:

The diameter of the shaft must be approximately 1.996 inches.

Would you like more details or have any questions?

Here are some related questions:

  1. How is the constant of proportionality kk determined in a joint variation problem?
  2. What are some examples of joint variation in real-world applications?
  3. How would the result change if the speed was doubled while keeping the horsepower constant?
  4. What is the relationship between the diameter and horsepower in this context?
  5. What happens to the required diameter if both speed and horsepower are doubled?

Tip: In joint variation problems, always solve for the constant of proportionality first to simplify calculations for new conditions.

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Joint Variation
Algebra

Formulas

hp = k * N * d^3

Theorems

Joint Variation Theorem

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 10-12